Cryptococcosis


Infection with fungus (usually in a yeast form) from the genus Cryptococcus, such as Cryptococcus neoformans or Cryptococcus gattii. Cryptococcosis is generally a rare condition, but about 7%-15% of people with AIDS may acquire the infection. Infection is rare but can also occur in people with a normally functioning immune system. The infection can manifest as pneumonia with spread to the brain and other organs. Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis is fatal if not treated. Amphotericin B and other antifungal medications are used to treat cryptococcosis.

REFERENCE:

King, John W., and Meredith L. DeWitt. “Cryptococcosis.” eMedicine.com. Oct. 30, 2009. .

Read Also:

  • Cryptococcus gattii

    Cryptococcus gattii: A rare form of yeast (fungus) that is airborne and may be acquired by inhalation. Although typically found in tropical and subtropical areas, C. gattii has become endemic in the Pacific Northwest, with multiple infections having been reported on Vancouver Island and in mainland British Columbia. Several reports of infections in the northwestern […]

  • Cryptococcus neoformans

    Cryptococcus neoformans: A fungus that occurs worldwide and is mainly found in debris around pigeon roosts and soil contaminated with decaying pigeon or chicken droppings. The infection is acquired by inhalation, and those infected may display a range of symptoms ranging from colonization of the airways without any symptoms to severe pneumonia. Spread to the […]

  • Cryptography

    Cryptography: The encoding and decoding of secret messages. Cryptography in genetics: The term “cryptography” can be applied to human DNA since the message of life is encoded in DNA. And for eons even the existence of DNA was unknown and the information therein an unfathomed mystery. The decoding of DNA in the human genome project […]

  • Cryptorchidism

    Cryptorchidism: A condition in which one or both testicles fail to move from the abdomen, where they develop before birth, down into the scrotum. Boys who have had cryptorchidism that was not corrected in early childhood are at increased risk for developing cancer of the testicles. Also known as undescended testicles.

  • Cryptosporidiosis

    An intestinal infection characterized by diarrhea caused by a microscopic parasite, Cryptosporidium parvum. The parasite lives in the small intestine of humans and animals who pass it in their feces. The parasite is protected by an outer shell that allows it to survive outside the body for long periods of time and makes it resistant […]


Disclaimer: Cryptococcosis definition / meaning should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional. All content on this website is for informational purposes only.